Filter starter

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In the aquarium hobby , filter starters are used to inoculate a new aquarium filter with the microorganisms that are necessary for nitrogen conversion in the aquarium . Without a vaccination, the aquarium must be operated for several weeks during which it is not yet stocked with aquarium fish .

One of the simplest methods is to insert part of an old filter into the filter to be restarted or to inoculate the aquarium water with sludge in which these organisms also live. At the same time, pet shops are also offering so-called "organic starters". These are aqueous solutions in which these microorganisms swim. The latest development is gel capsules, through whose fiber structure the aquarium water can flow. These gel capsules also contain microorganisms that can break down nitrate , nitrite , ammonium and phosphate . The industry promises that the aquarium can then be stocked with fish immediately without an excessive increase in these pollutants. Most aquarists, however, recommend operating a newly started aquarium for at least 10 to 14 days without fish, despite the use of aids, so that the processes in the aquarium can stabilize.